Optimal sunscreen use, during a sun holiday with a very high ultraviolet index, allows vitamin D synthesis without sunburn.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Sunlight contains ultraviolet (UV)A and UVB radiation. UVB is essential for vitamin D synthesis but is the main cause of sunburn and skin cancer. Sunscreen use is advocated to reduce the sun's adverse effects but may compromise vitamin D status.

Objectives

To assess the ability of two intervention sunscreens to inhibit vitamin D synthesis during a week-long sun holiday.

Methods

The impact of sunscreens on vitamin D status was studied during a 1-week sun holiday in Tenerife (28° N). Comparisons were made between two formulations, each with a sun protection factor (SPF) of 15. The UVA-protection factor (PF) was low in one case and high in the other. Healthy Polish volunteers (n = 20 per group) were given the sunscreens and advised on the correct application.

SUBMITTER: Young AR 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC6899952 | biostudies-literature | 2019 Nov

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature